As the political temperature gradually rises in Imo State, attention is already shifting towards the high-stakes battle for the 2027 governorship election. Though Governor Hope Uzodinma’s tenure is expected to lapse by January 15, 2028, behind-the-scenes maneuverings and subtle campaigns have begun in earnest, setting the stage for one of the most contested races in the state’s democratic history.
In typical Nigerian fashion, while a few major contenders have publicly shown signs of interest in the coveted seat,.others are still mum, but maintaining a studious interest on unfolding developments. Evidently, defections and realignments, subterranean meetings, increased media visibility, and subtle endorsements, paint a clear picture of ambitious gladiators plotting their way to Douglas House.
The Power of Incumbency: How Far Will Uzodinma’s Succession Plan Go?
One of the most important questions going into the 2027 race is: Will Governor Hope Uzodinma anoint a successor? How far can his succession plan go? The precedent across Nigerian politics where incumbents handpick successors to protect their legacies is likely to repeat in Imo State.
However, unlike in the past, Governor Uzodinma’s endorsement, may carry more baggage than benefits. It is documented that his administration, despite reconstructing key federal roads and a few infrastructure interventions, has faced sharp criticism for a deteriorating security situation, decaying critical infrastructure, lack of transparency, and poor service delivery in key sectors such as education and healthcare and absence of autonomy of local government system, along many others.
Should Uzodinma endorse a candidate, without deliberate attempts to improve the current rating and perception of his administration, the label of being a “continuity project” could be a political albatross, especially among voters yearning for a fresh start.
Moreover, Imo’s political history is replete with failed succession attempts by outgoing governors, including Chief Achike Udenwa and Senator Rochas Okorocha – both unable to install their preferred candidates. The odds may not favor Governor Uzodinma either, especially if he continues to be seen as out of touch with public expectations. To many, it is too late to launder the negative impressions that have trailed his administration.
Still, one cannot ignore the Governor’s capacity at maneuvering complexities to achieving positive electoral outcomes. This underlines the importance of vigilance, fairness, and electoral integrity in 2027, if the contenders must lower the hedge on him.
THE CONTENDERS
Senator Athan Achonu:
Senator Athan Achonu, former Senator representing Imo North, known for his wealth and flamboyant campaign style, emerged as the Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate in Imo State. Though he ran under the popular LP platform and claimed Peter Obi’s endorsement, Senator Achonu was unable to build genuine trust within the Obidient base or among the critical grassroots.
While his status as a major investor and his personal story of resilience (as Nigeria’s only one-armed senator) earned him some admiration, many critics argue that Senator Achonu represents the status quo, despite attempts to mix with the electorate, especially the indigent. His campaign was plagued by disconnected messaging and a top-down mobilization structure that failed to inspire confidence.
His political base remains thin and his alliance with Labour Party stakeholders appears fragile. Furthermore, many within the party are of the opinion that his emergence at the primaries over a more preferred Gen. Jack Ogulewe Rtd, as a setback for the party, going into the election.
Unless Achonu is able to reinvent his political strategy and shed the image of a billionaire parachuting into politics, his 2027 ambitions may be viewed more as vanity than vision.
Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha:
Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha remains one of the most recognizable figures in Imo State politics. A former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and a briefly-serving governor before his controversial removal by the Supreme Court in 2020 after seven months in office, Ihedioha commands significant political experience and a strong network of allies within Nigeria’s traditional political establishment.
Having recently joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ihedioha, who many believe showed signs of sterling performance as governor, is reportedly angling for a return to Douglas House. He brings to the table, decades of legislative and administrative experience, as well as an expansive contact base across the zones. However, his candidacy is not without significant liabilities.
One of the most damaging cracks in his support base is his fierce and highly publicized clash with the Obidient Movement during the 2023 elections. Ihedioha came under heavy fire after a widely circulated remark in which he dismissed Peter Obi’s presidential ambition. This statement enraged members of the Obidient Movement, who saw it as an affront not only to Peter Obi but to the broader Igbo aspiration for a Nigerian president of Southeast origin.
Though Ihedioha later attempted to walk back or clarify his comments, the damage had already been done.
That fracture widened again recently, with fresh altercations between Ihedioha and the Obidient bloc, again, over his alleged preference for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 presidential race. This perceived alignment with northern political interests, especially in the face of growing calls for an Igbo presidency has led many to label Ihedioha as a political turncoat working against the Southeast’s collective interest.
However, in an attempt to.placate Obidients, Ihedioha, through his verified Facebook page, has pledged support for Peter Obi. However, key figures in the movement dismissed the statement as an attempt at self preservation, rather than a genuine support for Peter Obi. The recent brawl could prove fatal for his ambition, especially as Peter Obi and Obidient bloc remain enormously popular in Imo State.
Internally, Ihedioha’s prolonged battle for control of the PDP structure in Imo particularly his rift with Senator Samuel Anyanwu, National Secretary of the PDP, culminated in deep divisions that eventually forced his exit from the party. This event cast doubt on his capacity to maneuver political intrigues.
While Ihedioha’s experience and name recognition remain assets, he faces mounting challenges in reconnecting with the grassroots and rebuilding trust with the politically active youth.
Senator Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi:
Currently representing Imo East Senatorial District, Onyewuchi has moved across party lines, from APGA to PDP to Labour Party and now to APC. While this might suggest strategic adaptability, it also reveals a lack of ideological grounding.
His legislative record, many suggest, is underwhelming, with few notable bills or impactful constituency projects. Moreover, despite his Owerri Zone origins, a region Governor Uzodinma has hinted will produce his successor, Senator Onyewuchi appears not to Garner the much needed grassroots momentum across the state and more importantly, internal APC support to emerge as the gubernatorial candidate. His frequent defections may also alienate a politically conscious youth population.
Recently, Senator Onyewuchi has increased his visibility in the media, appearing at key functions alongside Governor Uzodinma in a bid to curry the Governor’s support for the position.
Senator Ifeanyi Ararume:
Senator Ifeanyi Araraume is a veteran of Imo politics, having contested multiple governorship elections and served as a two term senator. His stronghold in the Okigwe Zone and a deep grassroots network make him formidable, especially among older voters. He is believed to have deep pockets with rich contacts to spring surprises.
It is also believe that he has an axe to grind and may want to extract his own pound of flesh with the outgoing governor who many believe, worked assiduously to deny him a return to the senate following the death of Senator Ben Uwajumogu and also influenced President Muhammad Buhari to rescind his appointment as the Chairman, Board of NNPCL.
However, his long-standing rivalry with Uzodinma could diminish his chances of clinching the APC ticket. Also, he is seen by younger voters as part of the political establishment that has failed the state. Without the full machinery of a party behind him, his path to Douglas House remains uncertain, unless he switches to a vibrant political party that can muster the momentum to give the incumbent a good fight.
Chief Ikedi Ohakim:
Former Governor Ikedi Ohakim (2007–2011) remains a household name in Imo State politics. A technocrat-turned-politician, he governed with a focus on infrastructural renewal and environmental reforms. Under his tenure, the Clean and Green initiative was launched to beautify Owerri and improve urban sanitation.
He later fell out with top political brass in the state. His brawl with the Catholic Church was also an incident he wished never happened. Despite the apology to the ex Governor by the key actors of that saga, Chief Ohakim has moved on and continued to push to be given a chance to complete the remaining constitutional term.
However, his return bid faces stiff headwinds. Controversies surrounding his tenure include accusations of high-handedness. While he commands respect among some elite blocs and seriously working strategically to reinvent his image and presence, his influence seems to have waned significantly, and his support base is no longer robust enough to mount a credible comeback without the backing of Governor Uzodinma, or a major political alliance.
Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho:
A billionaire maritime expert and former Minister of Interior, Captain Iheanacho is known more for his private sector success than political showmanship. As the Chairman of Integrated Oil and Gas Ltd., he brings executive management experience and a reputation for discipline and competence.
The former Minister of Interior, an amiable personality, commands a good measure of respect, especially among the elite political class. Though many believe he should take the position of a kingmaker and father-figure, others say he still has a lot to offer.
Yet, his lack of a political structure and low visibility in local politics render him a long shot. His previous attempts at the governorship seat in 2015 failed to generate the much needed momentum and penetration. Unless he builds a stronger grassroots campaign, his chances remain slim, though he might emerge as a valuable technocrat cum statesman should the Imo Harmony Project, IHP, a political pressure group, which he currently leads to achieve the Owerri Zone Agenda throws weight behind him.
Chief Charles Orie:
A philanthropist and former MD of ISOPADEC, Chief Charles Orie is quietly gaining ground, especially among rural dwellers and the economically disadvantaged. His humanitarian efforts, especially health outreach programs, bursaries and generosity have earned him grassroots loyalty.
Still, Orie has maintained a relatively low political profile and has not declared interest formally. His appeal lies in his simplicity and community connection, but without strong party backing or a strategic media narrative, his name may not resonate across the broader electorate.
His major setback is the fact that he hails from Orlu zone, as the incumbent governor, a zone that would complete twenty four years on the governorship seat of the state since 1999. Nevertheless, he could be a strong factor in making the next governor should he choose the godfather role.
Senator Samuel Anyanwu:
As the 2027 governorship race in Imo State begins to take shape, one name that continues to resurface is Senator Samuel Nnaemeka Anyanwu, National Secretary of the PDP. With a political career that has seen him become Council Chairman, State legislator and Senator, Anyanwu remains one of the few aspirants with an extensive resume and deep-rooted name recognition across Imo State.
Despite his pedigree, the 2023 governorship election marked a severe blow to Senator Anyanwu’s public perception and political capital. As the PDP governorship candidate, he delivered what many have called the worst performance by the party in the state’s governorship history. His defeat at the polls was not just a loss, it was a major collapse that raised serious questions about his popularity, strategy, and leadership capacity.
Several factors were blamed, alleged lack of grassroots mobilization, uninspiring messaging, and a campaign that many felt was neither robust nor people-centered. Worse still, Senator Anyanwu has not adequately addressed or provided convincing explanations for the poor outing, leaving room for suspicion, discontent, and weakening trust within PDP faithful and the larger electorate, while some have alleged compromise.
An equally damaging chapter in his political career was his long-standing and bitter rivalry with Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha within the PDP. Although Ihedioha has since left the PDP for the ADC, the wreckage from their political duel still lingers. For Senator Anyanwu, the challenge now is how to rebuild bridges, consolidate fragmented support, and reassure aggrieved stakeholders that he can indeed lead a credible and winning party.
Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi:
Perhaps the most exciting entrant is Dr. Chima Amadi. A globally respected scholar, successful entrepreneur and political strategist, Amadi brings a rare brilliance, compassion, policy expertise, a clean public record and clarity of vision that resonates deeply with Imolites, especially the youths, grassroots, political and working-class citizens.
As the leader of The Mazi Organization (TMO), a robust grassroots based movement, with presence across the 27 LGAs, he commands youth and women loyalty, especially for his humanitarian and philanthropic work, which have empowered a substantial number of youths and women, including students across the state.
What distinguishes Dr. Amadi from the rest of the pack, political watchers say, is not just his impressive academic and professional pedigree but his direct deep-rooted commitment to the people. Through his interventions, in partnership with faith-based and community groups, he has funded educational scholarships, provided healthcare assistance, supported small-scale businesses and directly empowered women and youths. These interventions, findings reveal, have improved living conditions of many families across the state.
TMO, considered the most vibrant citizen-driven political platform in Imo State has made deliberate penetration to many households. Its strategic mobilization, especially among young voters, artisans, market women, and students, has created a robust groundswell of support for Dr. Amadi’s ambition.
Crucially, Dr. Amadi’s message appears to be in sync with the Obidient Movement in Imo State, whose members see in him a worthy ideological ally. Much like Mr. Peter Obi, Dr. Amadi is admired for his compassion and people-oriented values. He has consistently advocated for prudent governance, education reform, infrastructure-driven development, and the protection of human dignity, tenets that strongly align with the yearning of Imolites.
In a state weary of the old order, Dr. Amadi’s trajectory, humility, and hands-on interventions, present a compelling alternative. His ability to connect directly with ordinary people, whether in markets, churches, town halls, or rural communities, reflects not just political strategy, but authentic empathy.
Additionally, Dr. Amadi, seen as the man to watch, enters the 2027 contest untainted by political scandals or partisan betrayals. This clean slate, combined with his grassroots appeal and robust war chest makes him one of the few aspirants who commands both credibility and financial capacity to spring surprises at the polls.
However, internal challenges remain. The need for strategic consensus-building within the Owerri Zone, long plagued by internal rivalry and ensuring sustained cohesion within TMO, Obidient Movement and the larger electorate will be critical to his success. His ability to convert his popularity into actual votes at the polling units, especially in a state with a history of electoral manipulation, will be the final test of his gubernatorial ascendance.
Dr. Sam Amadi:
A respected intellectual and former Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi was a governorship aspirant.on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the 2019 governorship election. He brings vast ideas, vision, and moral clarity to the race. However, his political strength remains largely theoretical.
He has yet to demonstrate electoral viability or build a grassroots network necessary for victory. His seeming lack of financial resources and absence of a solid party structure continue to hold him back. Unless he forms strategic alliances, Amadi risks remaining a celebrated public intellectual rather than a practical political contender.
Chief Mike Ejiogu:
An Abuja-based billionaire real estate magnate, Chief Mike Ejiogu has made a bold entry into the 2027 Imo State governorship race. A political newcomer with a reputation in the business world, Ejiogu is best known as the President of Akuruo Ulo, a forum of Igbo entrepreneurs advocating for investment in the Southeast.
His entrance into the political fray has sent ripples across the Okigwe zone, a region hitherto dominated by political heavyweights like Senator Ifeanyi Araraume and former Governor Ikedi Ohakim. He seems to be offering a new path that appeals to the youth, private sector enthusiasts, and advocates of fresh air.
However, Chief Ejiogu is largely unknown within traditional political circles. He lacks the depth of public service experience or a history of political engagement in the state. In a terrain as tricky as Imo politics, this could be a major handicap. Without a tested political structure across the LGAs, particularly in rural areas, mobilizing support may prove difficult. Records suggest his inexperience in governance and public sector dynamics. Hence voters may question his readiness to navigate the complexities of governance.
Mr. Jasper Azuatalam:
Mr. Jasper Azuatalam, a former commissioner and technocrat with a history in national pension administration, is visibly nursing a governorship ambition in 202. Articulate and intelligent, he is often praised in policy circles for his administrative competence.
However, Azuatalam has yet to demonstrate the political muscle or grassroots structure needed to mount a serious challenge. Despite his efforts to rebrand as a new-generation leader, many see him as only a product of the former President Muhammad Buhari administration, disconnected from the real socio-political fabric of Imo State.
Worse still, he lacks broad name recognition across the LGAs. For Azuatalam to be taken seriously, he would need to build formidable alliances, secure a credible platform, and engage directly with the people he hopes to lead, beyond social media.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Imo
The 2027 Imo governorship election offers a unique opportunity for the electorate to break free from the chains of recycled leadership, cronyism, and poor governance. While the field is filled with seasoned names and fresh faces, the real contest will not just be among candidates but between the old order and a new political consciousness.
Imolites must go beyond surface-level popularity and examine the track records, integrity, and competence of all aspirants. The stakes are high. The next occupant of Douglas House must not be another mistake.
The days ahead, promises to be quite interesting as more contenders are expected to declare their interests as well as their political platforms.
By Ralph Ejimkonye
